beachhead

American  

[beech-hed] / ˈbitʃˌhɛd /

noun

1. the area that is the first objective of a military force landing on an enemy shore.

2. a secure initial position that has been gained and can be used for further advancement; foothold.

   The company has won a beachhead in the personal computer market.

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beachhead British  

/ ˈbiːtʃˌhɛd /

noun

1. an area on a beach that has been captured from the enemy and on which troops and equipment are landed

2. the object of an amphibious operation

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Etymology

Origin of beachhead

First recorded in 1935–40; beach + head

Example Sentences

It’s the latter portion — “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” — that leaves room for interpretation, forming the beachhead upon which legal arguments against birthright citizenship have been mounted.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

A battle for a beachhead near Bandar Abbas, Iran’s main naval headquarters, or for Kharg Island, a crucial oil export hub, would risk significant American casualties, former officials said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

In his address, he told activists he was on a mission to “professionalise and democratise” the party, having given it a "beachhead" in Parliament.

From BBC • Sep. 20, 2024

But the caucus ultimately decided to back affiliation as long as A.L.U. members ratified it, saying it would help “turn the beachhead we’ve secured in Staten Island into a militant, autonomous local.”

From New York Times • Jun. 18, 2024

So changed, he looked as never before upon the Akhaian beachhead, but like a beggar, merged in the townspeople; and no one there remarked him.

From "The Odyssey" by Homer